Arrests made at National Lockdown protest in Limerick this weekend

TWO men and a woman were arrested at a National Lockdown protest which blocked traffic in the city centre, Limerick Live has learned.

It was organised by Limerick Says No who invited people through a post on social media to “join the day to make our voices heard!!!”.

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It was held in Arthur’s Quay Park at noon on Saturday before proceeding on foot to the Shannonbridge roundabout. There were a couple of dozen protesters, including children, at the protest.

A garda spokesperson said officers attended a public gathering at Arthur's Quay Park, Limerick, which subsequently proceeded to block traffic in Limerick city centre.

“In the course of managing the gathering, two adult males (aged in their 30s and 60s) and an adult female (aged in her 30s) were arrested under the Public Order Act having failed to comply with directions of gardaí. All three were brought to a garda station in Limerick,” said a garda spokesperson.

Footage has emerged on social media of gardai escorting individuals around the corner to Henry Street garda station.

“Those involved in the gathering dispersed a short time later. No one was injured. The three arrested individuals have since been released without charge and files will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions,” said the garda spokesperson.

They continued: “An Garda Síochána respects the right of citizens to exercise their constitutional rights; however, this right does not extend to breaches of criminal law, interference with the rights of others to conduct their daily activities, or attacks on members of An Garda Síochána.

“Any garda activity in relation to such events involves a graduated policing response, considering relevant legislation and public safety, with enforcement as a last resort.”